Trichloroethylene
Ethylene Trichloride
- CAS
- 79-01-6
- EC
- 201-167-4
- Sectors
- Lubricants & Metalworking, Textiles, Leather & Paper, Electronics & Solar PV
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid with the formula C2HCl3 and a molecular weight of 131.39 g/mol. This Technical Grade chlorinated solvent has a density of 1.46 g/cm³, a boiling point of 87.2°C, a sweet chloroform-like odor, and is nonflammable with no open-cup flash point.
Its outstanding dissolving power for oils, greases, and waxes makes it a standard choice for industrial vapor degreasing and cold cleaning of metal parts in the automotive and engineering sectors.
TCE also serves as an extraction solvent and chemical intermediate, notably in the production of the refrigerant HFC-134a. It is produced by chlorination of ethylene and, being highly volatile, is handled in closed systems under controlled conditions.
SoleChem, an ISO 9001:2015 certified chemical supplier based in Türkiye, delivers Trichloroethylene (CAS 79-01-6) to customers in more than 40 countries.
Trichloroethylene
Applications
Primarily used as a solvent for metal degreasing in vapor degreasing systems; in dry cleaning for textiles; extraction solvent in food processing like decaffeination; intermediate in chemical synthesis for refrigerants and pesticides; in adhesives, paints, and coatings as carrier; in electronics for cleaning circuits.
Safety & Risks
Highly toxic, suspected carcinogen (IARC Group 1) causing liver/kidney damage and neurotoxicity; irritates eyes/skin/respiratory tract (Category 2), skin sensitizer (Category 1), mutagen (Category 2). Inhalation leads to dizziness or unconsciousness; flammable vapors possible though nonflammable.
Packaging
Typically packaged in 290kg steel drums or glass bottles for lab use; store in tightly closed containers in cool, ventilated areas away from light and incompatibles.